Early case resolution discussions in attempted abduction case
By Delon Shurtz on April 29, 2021.
LETHBRIDGE HERALDdshurtz@lethbridgeherald.com A 21-year-old Lethbridge man who last month pleaded not guilty in relation to an attempted abduction in the city, is trying to work out a deal with the Crown.Heinrich Van Daniel Blanco pleaded not guilty on March 19 to one count of attempted abduction of a person under the age of 14, and the case was adjourned to schedule a pre-trial conference and set a trial date. However, during a brief hearing Tuesday in Lethbridge provincial court, an agent for the accused’s lawyer said defence and the Crown were now having early case resolution discussions.
ECR discussions often result in both sides reaching an agreement to resolve charges without having to go to trial.
At about noon on Aug. 31, 2020 police responded to an attempted abduction in the 100 block of Mic Mac Boulevard and Red Crow Boulevard West.
Police reported the driver of a silver car pulled up to a 13-year-old boy and offered to give him a ride to the store to buy candy.
The boy refused and the vehicle drove away.
Police investigators identified the vehicle and prepared a composite drawing of the subject, which, coupled with tips from the public, led to the identification of a suspect.
Blanco was granted bail following his arrest but ordered to adhere to several release conditions. The matter is scheduled to return to court May 11.
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